Firewire (1394) vs camera-link digital video camera?

[Christ0phe]

Hello:
I would like to purchase a video imaging acquisition system. I need at
least 1k by 1k resolution, colors, 8 bits and i am working in a
Labview IMAQ environment in which I already have a huge bunch of image
analysis routines developed. Now the question is: what kind of camera
+ board should I choose? Some vendors recommend me firewire camera
(Sony DFW-SX900 for instance) and a very cheap firewire board (for
instance Matrox Meteor-2, 1394) others say the camera-link is The new
standard in the digital camera world and that I will get higher
throughput (25f/s compared to 5-10 with firewire). In my application,
I will not need more than 5f/s. Camera-link boards are more expensive
(example, Matrox or National Instruments).
The
question is then which alternative to choose? Please mention your
experience and HW/SW which you are happy with,
Thanx a lot for your precious help,
Christophe

[BruceAmmons]

Christophe,

I would not worry so much about the interface as much as the functionality. It sounds like you know the specs you need in a camera (resolution, bit depth, frame rate). Find out what camera/interface combinations are out there that meet all your requirements, and purchase the one that is most cost effective. Don't pay extra for features that you won't use, such as the 25 f/s on the camera link board.

I would talk to Robert Eastlund at Graftek Imaging (800) 441-2118 about selecting a camera. He distributes a large variety of the cameras that work with IMAQ, and will be able to advise you on the best camera for your application.

Bruce